More than ever: Live by the gun, die by the gun

While I do not often quote or even read the Bible, many of those who are strong gun-rights supporters, and so-called "Christians," often use the Bible to support their views. During the current debate regarding the need for some reasonable gun-safety legislation, a biblical quote came to mind. The quote comes directly from Je...

Comment

seacoastonline.com

Writer

Posted Jan. 4, 2013 at 2:00 AM

Posted Jan. 4, 2013 at 2:00 AM

» Social News

Dec. 30 — To the Editor:

While I do not often quote or even read the Bible, many of those who are strong gun-rights supporters, and so-called "Christians," often use the Bible to support their views. During the current debate regarding the need for some reasonable gun-safety legislation, a biblical quote came to mind. The quote comes directly from Jesus, when he was being arrested by the Romans in the garden of Gethsemane. Peter pulls a sword to defend Jesus, Jesus tells him to put it away and that "all who draw the sword will die by the sword" (Matthew 26:52).

These words from Jesus are more relevant today than when he first spoke them. Those calling for more guns in response to the continuing gun violence in America need to heed the words of Jesus. More guns will simply lead to more gun violence, and those who use and possess guns are more likely to die from guns.

The time is long past due to place reasonable limits on gun and gun-related equipment. Every right we have, even those provided by the Second Amendment, comes with limits. Every right also requires that we behave responsibly in the exercise of those rights. When the rights of an individual place the greater society at risk, then it is appropriate for that society to place reasonable, and lawful, restrictions on those rights.